Google has announced a new tool that lets app developers add Google Maps data to their creations using the Gemini API. This update, revealed last week, allows apps to tap into details about over 250 million places, like restaurants, shops, and landmarks, making their features smarter and more helpful for users.
The tool connects the Gemini AI system to Google Maps, giving developers access to up-to-date information such as addresses, opening hours, and customer reviews. This helps apps provide accurate answers when users ask about nearby places or directions. For example, a travel app could suggest the best coffee shop open late or a navigation app could find a gas station with good ratings, all based on real Maps data.
Google already offers a similar tool that links Gemini to Google Search, pulling in fresh web information to keep answers reliable and reduce mistakes. With the new Maps connection, developers can combine both tools to make their apps even better. Search gives broad, timely details from across the internet, while Maps provides specific facts about locations. Together, they help apps understand the context of a question – like whether it’s about a place – and deliver clear, trustworthy responses with sources listed.
For instance, if someone asks an app, “Where’s a good pizza spot near me?” Gemini can check if the question is location-based, pull data from Google Maps, and suggest a nearby restaurant with its address and hours, all without making up details. This makes apps feel more aware of the world around you.
Google says this update opens the door for developers to create new features that blend AI smarts with real-world facts, offering users a smoother and more useful experience. The company shared the news in a blog post, encouraging app makers to try the Gemini API with Maps support now available.
This move shows Google’s push to help developers build apps that feel personal and grounded in real places, just in time for a busy season of travel and exploration. Developers interested in adding these features can check out Google’s developer website for more details on getting started.